waang4 gaai1 zaak3 hong6橫街窄巷横街窄巷
Jyutpingwaang4 gaai1 zaak3 hong6
Yalewàahng gāai jaak hohng
Definition
Narrow streets and alleys, typically those with few pedestrians.
colloquialplaces
How it's used
Often used to describe places that are hidden, obscure, or off the beaten path, rather than just physically narrow. It carries a sense of discovery or local exploration, as these areas are where one might find authentic, non-touristy shops or eateries. The phrase is frequently paired with verbs like 捐窿捐罅 to emphasize the act of searching through every nook and cranny.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
keoi5佢seng4成jat6日zung1鍾ji3意gyun1捐lung1窿gyun1捐laa3罅，heoi3去saai3晒di1啲waang4橫gaai1街zaak3窄hong6巷wan2搵sik6食。
He always likes to poke around in narrow alleys to find good food.
Do you know if there are any narrow backstreets around here where I can park?
Related words
Common phrases
to search every nook and cranny
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a standard narrow road or a congested alleyway in a modern commercial district. It specifically refers to older, quieter, or less accessible lanes that feel somewhat tucked away from the main streets.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
